Based on data from the Indonesian Bird's Nest Entrepreneurs Association (PPSBI), Indonesia's global export of swiftlet nests reached 1,502,290 tons in 2022, with a total export value of USD 590.60 million, equivalent to IDR 9.2 trillion (USD 1 = IDR 15,612.55). Dr. Boedi Mranata, Chairman of PPSBI, notes that the foreign exchange value from swiftlet nest exports could triple with optimization, particularly through direct exports to China. Direct exports to China contribute approximately 67% to Indonesia's swiftlet nest export value. According to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), swiftlet nest exports to China amounted to USD 387.44 million, equivalent to IDR 6 trillion in 2022, with an export volume of 288,154 tons. Boedi emphasizes that the collaboration between governments in direct exports ensures clear and monitored pricing, appreciating the efforts of various stakeholders contributing to sustaining direct exports to China. He acknowledges China's ongoing efforts to increase its annual absorption capacity of exports from Indonesia.
However, the reality presents challenges, as the actual direct exports to China consistently fall below the capacity granted by China since 2021. Boedi illustrates this by comparing the actual exports to China with the allocated capacity (Refer to the Volume of Swiftlet Nest Exports to China table). Moreover, obstacles persist in sending swiftlet nests to other countries, with lower per-kilogram prices due to shipments from Indonesia, leading to a decrease in the overall export value. Boedi highlights the substantial market potential directed towards China, which also sources swiftlet nests from Vietnam, Hong Kong, and Malaysia. He speculates that these supplies might have originally originated from Indonesia, routed through other countries before reaching China. Addressing these challenges requires collaborative efforts from various stakeholders, including farmers, manufacturers, and the government. Simultaneously, the weakened global economy adds another layer of complexity to the trade dynamics. The intricacies of this trade landscape necessitate a united approach to overcome these challenges and capitalize on the vast market opportunities, especially in China.
